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Azure Waters Surround the Magnificence of the Azores Islands, Portugal (Europe) for Eight Days & Seven Nights in a Four-Bedroom Villa for up to Eight People, Including a Whale Watching Experience and a Traditional Dinner Prepared by a Chef in the Villa (Land Only)

Mother Nature has created a land full of natural beauty, ready to be explored, in the blue immensity of the Atlantic Ocean, and it's the Azores. One of Portugal's best kept secrets, this remote nine-island archipelago is best known for its vibrantly colored blue-green lakes, grottoes, volcanic mountain peaks, stunning topography, colorful hydrangeas, ancient fishing villages, thermal springs and vast untouched landscapes. Stay with your crew in a luxurious modern villa, go whale watching in one of the best places in the world to do so, indulge in a private dinner prepared by a chef, and soak up as much of this natural wonderland as you can!

The nine small worlds on the islands of the archipelago may appear to be small in size, but have much to boast about. The Azores are actually the tops of some of the tallest mountains on the planet, as measured from their base at the bottom of the ocean! An ecosystem with unique characteristics, the Azores are also one of the largest whale sanctuaries in the world, with more than 20 different types of cetaceans frequently spotted in the surrounding waters. With majestic whales and friendly dolphins, the blue Atlantic Ocean becomes even more magical around these nine islands. Azores has also won multiple awards, including Europe's Leading Adventure Tourism Destination 2022 by World Travel Awards, earning the title of one of Europe's safest destinations, and being in the top 10 of the best islands in Europe by Condé Nast Traveler's 2022 Choice Award!

You'll stay on the island of Pico, the second-largest island of the Azores Archipelago and home to Portugal's highest mountain, also called Pico. The youngest island among the nine volcanic islands that make up the Azores—only 300,000 years old, compared to millions for the others—Pico also has some land that is only 1,000 years old, as evidenced by the striking black lava everywhere! The island is a sublime mix of lava rocks and exotic vegetation in an ever changing scenery, with an intriguing wine scene thanks to a hot and dry climate and a rich mineral soil. Your amazing accommodation for a seven-night stay will be a luxury villa for up to eight guests. This stunning and newly constructed villa boasts four bedrooms, each with an ensuite bathroom, a fully equipped kitchen, a nice living area and an amazing private outdoor heated infinity pool.

The villa will be the perfect base for unwinding, spending time in nature, and offers easy access to exploring the surrounding area. Each day will begin with a freshly prepared breakfast, made with local seasonal ingredients, right in the comfort of your villa. One evening you will have the chance to enjoy a traditional dinner in the villa prepared for you. Save one day during the week to embark on a fantastic three-hour whale watching experience in a speed boat to observe these majestic animals.

Your trip for up to eight people includes:
• 8 days/7 nights accommodations in a Four-Bedroom Villa
• Daily breakfast prepared in villa
• Daily maid service
• One traditional dinner prepared by a private chef in the villa
• Whale-watching experience
• Heated pool
• Utilities and final cleaning
• Concierge service

Item Special Note

TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Travel package is non-refundable and subject to availability. Certificates/gift cards cannot be replaced. Passport required for travel outside the U.S. Villa may be substituted with equal or similar accommodations. Please contact us at auction@stmaryhs.org to find out deadline to travel. A minimum 60 day advance reservation is required.